Future Clippers sit out game

A first-inning stumble by Chuck Lofgren sent the Clippers to a 4-2 loss against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs yesterday in Allentown, Pa.

A first-inning stumble by Chuck Lofgren sent the Clippers to a 4-2 loss against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs yesterday in Allentown, Pa.

Lofgren (5-6) allowed three runs in the first on three hits, two walks and an error before finding his rhythm. The IronPigs managed just two hits over the next five innings he pitched, but the damage was done.

During the game, word leaked out that three IronPigs could be wearing Clippers uniforms for today's game.

Lehigh Valley pitcher Carlos Carrasco, shortstop Jason Donald and catcher Lou Marson were among the four players the Philadelphia Phillies traded to the Cleveland Indians for ace Cliff Lee and outfielder Ben Francisco. Class-A pitcher Jason Knapp was the fourth.

Carrasco was scratched from the start, and neither of the other two played. Five Lehigh Valley relievers shut down the Clippers.

Recently acquired relief pitcher Jess Todd made his debut with the Clippers. He got out the side in order in the eighth.

The trade will send two Clippers to the majors.

Indians general manager Mark Shapiro said that Clippers pitcher Fausto Carmona would be recalled to take Lee's spot in the Cleveland rotation. Outfielder Trevor Crowe will be called up to fill Francisco's spot.

"We obviously need a backup center fielder," Shapiro said. "(Crowe) is a guy that is playing very well at triple-A right now. Fausto Carmona will be back in the rotation."

Andy Marte was promoted from the Clippers to the Indians on Tuesday after Ryan Garko was traded.

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